Travel between Toronto and Ottawa is convenient, with multiple flights, trains and buses going between Ontario’s two biggest cities daily.
Struggling to choose? Check out this advice:
For budget-conscious travellers who don’t mind a longer day – take a bus (but make sure to book in advance to secure the best rates).
For a comfortable journey with some amenities, hop on VIA Rail and enjoy views of Lake Ontario and greenery. Youth, CAA members, Indigenous people and Canadian Military can travel at varying discounts.
If you’re pressed for time, fly from Toronto to Ottawa from Billy Bishop Airport or Toronto Pearson Airport. Flight duration averages around 1 hour.
If you’re visiting Toronto, adding Ottawa to your trip itinerary offers a deeper look at the country’s history, culture and natural beauty. For Toronto locals who want a peaceful change of pace, Toronto to Ottawa is an easy and affordable getaway.
Ottawa is Canada’s capital. It is walkable, scenic and rich with national landmarks, all just 450 kilometres from Toronto. Whether you travel by train, plane, bus or car, getting from Toronto to Ottawa is simple.
Getting between Toronto and Ottawa
The distance from Toronto to Ottawa is approximately 450 kilometres (280 miles). Travel times range from about one hour by plane to roughly five hours by road or rail. With multiple daily departures and flexible schedules, it is easy to plan a same-weekend trip or a short midweek escape.
Toronto to Ottawa by plane
Flying is the fastest way to travel from Toronto to Ottawa.
Direct routes operate between:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
- Ottawa International Airport
Flight time is typically 1 hour, with frequent daily schedules, particularly from Pearson. Booking early can help secure more affordable tickets.
Once you arrive in Ottawa, the airport connects to the city’s O-Train light rail transit system. In about 25 to 30 minutes, you can be downtown near Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market and major hotels.
Best for:
- Short trips
- Visitors adding Ottawa to a larger Canadian itinerary
- Travellers looking for the quickest Toronto to Ottawa option
Toronto to Ottawa by train
Taking the train from Toronto to Ottawa is comfortable, convenient and competitively priced.
VIA Rail operates multiple daily departures between:
- Toronto Union Station
- Ottawa Train Station
The journey typically takes 4.5 to 5 hours. Onboard amenities include Wi-Fi and spacious seating, making it easy to relax or work while you travel.
Union Station is centrally located in downtown Toronto. Ottawa’s train station connects directly to local transit, allowing you to reach downtown quickly without needing a car. Train tickets can be purchased in advance online, and flexible fare options make this a practical and affordable choice.
Best for:
- City centre to city centre travel
- Avoiding highway traffic
- Travellers who want a smooth Toronto to Ottawa experience
Toronto to Ottawa by bus
The bus is often the cheapest way to travel from Toronto to Ottawa, with several carriers offering direct service.
Options include:
- Megabus
- FlixBus
- Rider Express
Departure points in Toronto are typically near Union Station or Scarborough, with arrivals in central Ottawa. Travel time ranges from 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Bus tickets are generally affordable, and frequent schedules make it easy to coordinate travel.
Best for:
- Budget-friendly travel
- Students and solo travellers
- Flexible Toronto to Ottawa planning
